49 young people appointed to 2026 Youth Advisory Groups

Forty-nine young Australians will come together in Canberra this week to begin working with and advising the Albanese Labor Government on key policy issues as part of the 2026 Youth Advisory Groups.

The Advisory Group members, together with the Youth Steering Committee, will meet with Ministers, their respective departments and Members of Parliament as part of Youth Meets Parliament Week.

Aged 16 to 24, the 2026 cohort was selected from more than 500 applicants nationwide and brings diverse lived experience to the policy issues that matter most to young Australians.

Youth Meets Parliament Week and the 2026 Youth Advisory Groups provide an important opportunity for the young representatives to engage with the Government and key decision‑makers directly and to work together to drive better policy outcomes. 

The 2026 Youth Advisory Groups members represent the breadth of diversity among Australia’s young people and their experiences. 

This includes First Nations young people, members from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, members with experience of mental ill-health, young people living in regional, rural and remote Australia, young migrants, gender diverse members, young parents, members with experience of being a carer, members from LGBTIQA+ communities, and members with disabilities. 

For more information visit youth.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Youth, Jess Walsh:

“Congratulations to all the new members of the Youth Advisory Groups and I look forward to working with them this year.

“Being selected to be part of these committees is no easy feat.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to have a say on the policies and programs that affect them.

“These young people have a lot to offer, and we can deliver better outcomes by listening to their valuable insights and lived experience.

“That’s what Youth Meets Parliament Week is all about – bringing together youth representatives and Ministers and Members of Parliament in Canberra so we can listen to what they have to say.”

For more information on the 2026 Youth Advisory Group members visit youth.gov.au/youth-advisory-groups

Youth Advisory Group members

Climate Change & Water Youth Advisory Group

Countering Foreign Interference Advisory Group

First Nations Youth Advisory Group

Mental Health Youth Advisory Group

Sports Participation Youth Advisory Group